Accommodation in Aberdeen

Finding suitable accommodation in Aberdeen in the right location is essential for a positive expat experience in the city. Negotiating an unfamiliar city and its property market is always challenging for new arrivals, so expats should do their homework before moving.

Expats should take some time to familiarise themselves with the various areas and suburbs in Aberdeen to narrow down their choices. Other factors expats should decide on before starting their search for accommodation include their budget; proximity to work, schools and public transport; and the type of property they want to live in. Most expats tend to rent rather than buy a home in Aberdeen, at least initially.

Areas and suburbs in Aberdeen

Aberdeen is home to various areas and suburbs suited to diverse interests and needs. Regardless of where expats choose to live in Aberdeen, many of the city's neighbourhoods are largely considered safe. 

Young professionals and students moving to Aberdeen enjoy living in Old Aberdeen. The historic centre is conveniently located near the University of Aberdeen, making it ideal for students and those working in the city centre. Old Aberdeen also boasts several independent boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife spots. 

Bridge of Dee and Garthdee are other suburbs for young professionals and students to explore. These neighbourhoods are conveniently located near the city centre and the Robert Gordons University.

Families will have plenty of options in Aberdeen. Bridge of Don is a quick 10-minute drive from the city centre and has excellent schools, parks, and golf courses. Homes in this area are often built on spacious lots, with new constructions available. 

Those looking for a village atmosphere will enjoy living in Cove Bay. Although Cove Bay is slightly further from the city centre, the neighbourhood has excellent public transport links. 

Read Areas and Suburbs in Aberdeen for more on the city's neighbourhoods. 

Types of accommodation in Aberdeen

From Aberdeen’s distinctive granite townhouses to luxury apartments, newcomers to the city are sure to find a home that meets their needs.

Aberdeen offers fully furnished, semi-furnished, and unfurnished accommodation options. Those on short-term work assignments who won't be in the city for long will likely want to opt for fully furnished housing. Those in the city for a longer period may prefer unfurnished accommodation. It's quite easy to purchase reasonably priced furniture.

Expats on a tight budget will find plenty of house-share options in Aberdeen, especially given it's a university town. Renting an individual room in a larger house shared with others is fairly common among students and young professional expats starting out in Aberdeen.

Some new arrivals initially choose to rent short-term via a holiday-let website. While short-term rental costs are higher, the property is usually furnished and all bills are included. This is also often a fantastic way to get to know the city's different neighbourhoods before committing to a long-term lease. 

Finding accommodation in Aberdeen

Finding property in Aberdeen can be a challenge for new arrivals who don’t have much knowledge of the local market. Some expats will be lucky enough to have their accommodation arranged by their employer, but there are several resources for those who need to find a home on their own.

Before moving to Aberdeen, newcomers should browse property portals online to get an idea of what's available within their budget. While it is possible to deal directly with property owners, most people enlist the services of a letting agent who has local knowledge of Aberdeen’s property market.

Useful links

• Rightmove
• Zoopla
• OnTheMove

Renting accommodation in Aberdeen

Applications

Landlords or agents will typically require references from the expat's employer or previous landlord, so it is always best to have these ready, along with proof of identification.

Deposits

It's standard to pay the equivalent of one or two months' rent as a deposit when signing a lease. Note that according to Scottish law, charging more than two months' rent as a deposit is illegal.

Leases

The terms of tenancy agreements can vary and can be negotiated between tenant and landlord. Generally, landlords rent their properties for between six months and a year.  

Utilities in Aberdeen

Before committing to a contract, expats should determine whether utilities are included in the rental price. In most cases, expats must budget for gas and electricity as additional costs. They will also need to factor in the cost of council tax.

Expats must ensure that the utilities are turned on and ready to be used when they move in. Most landlords will provide utility companies with the final meter readings, but expats are encouraged to take their own readings to avoid being potentially overcharged. 

For more detail, see Setting up Household Utilities in the UK.

Bins and recycling

The City of Aberdeen collects general waste weekly and residents are required to have their bins on the curbside by 7am on their scheduled collection day. The municipality also provides two additional recycling bins – a brown bin and a mixed recycling bin. The brown bin is used for food and garden waste and is collected alongside the general waste bin. 

Mixed recycling bins are collected biweekly. The City of Aberdeen also provides four recycling centres that are accessible by appointment. These recycling centres access various recyclable materials, including bulky waste like furniture, garden waste, and hazardous waste like car batteries and engine oil. 

Parking

Residents living in a controlled parking zone can apply to the city council for a parking permit. Both fixed and flexible permits are available, with the fixed permits being eligible for one specific car, while the flexible permits may be used on any vehicles. There are also numerous car parks and on-street parking spaces scattered across Aberdeen, including free ones. 

Useful links

• Aberdeen City Council – Bins, waste, and recycling
• Aberdeen City Council – Find a car park